Escalator installed at Lahore railway station. PHOTO: EXPRESS
LAHORE:
The much talked about free Wi-Fi facility at Lahore Railway Station has been suspended after the railway authorities allegedly failed to clear payments to the internet service provider, leaving passengers frustrated.
Commuters arriving at the station continued to scan QR codes displayed at various locations in an attempt to access the service, only to find that the facility was no longer operational.
Many passengers expressed anger, labeling the situation a “mockery” and questioning why the service was advertised if payments had not been arranged.
The sources said the private company providing internet services discontinued the facility after its bills remained unpaid. The company has reportedly removed its Wi-Fi equipment from the station’s premises.
The free Wi-Fi initiative had been launched on the directions of Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi and was introduced at major stations including Lahore and Karachi to facilitate passengers.
Equipment had been installed at the main entrance and on platforms two and four at the Lahore Railway Station. However, the units have now been dismantled, leaving only empty fixtures, while signs advertising “Free Wi-Fi” remain displayed.
Passengers said they are left confused on arrival when they try to scan the QR codes, only to find the system is inactive.
“It is embarrassing. The first trains are not on time and now even the promised Wi-Fi facility is not available,” said passenger Rahat Babar while talking to Express News.
Another traveler, Mian Rashid, said passengers were already paying high fares and getting little in return besides the hassle.
